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GEORGE TOWN: Firefighters risked their lives battling a massive fire that engulfed two factories and a wedding planning shop on Jalan Patani today. The fire, which broke out in the afternoon, left one member of the Volunteer Fire Department (PBS) injured and another with a broken leg.
According to Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Deputy Director, Endi Sherimi Mohd Azmi, an emergency call was received at 3.07 pm, reporting the blaze. Firefighters arrived to find intense flames consuming the solvent and metal factories, as well as the wedding planning premises.
“Two PBS members, both in their 30s, sustained injuries during the operation. One suffered a broken leg after tripping over a water spray pipe, while the other was injured while dodging falling metal debris,” he stated. Both victims, from PBS Sungai Puyu and Kampung Pisang, were rushed to Penang Hospital (HPP) for treatment.
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Firefighters faced initial difficulties due to low water pressure from nearby fire hydrants. However, the situation was managed using a 10,000-litre capacity tanker truck from the Jalan Perak Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), along with additional water supply from nearby buildings and PBS water tank vehicles.
“Our team worked tirelessly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to adjacent buildings. The operation took approximately 65 minutes before the flames were brought under control,” Endi Sherimi added.
The fire caused significant damage, with an estimated 80 percent destruction of the affected premises. As of 7.30 pm, overhaul operations were still ongoing to ensure complete extinguishment of any remaining embers.
The cause of the fire and the total extent of the damages are currently under investigation. Fortunately, no factory workers or occupants of the affected premises were reported injured. – BERNAMA